Un Otro Voice

THE AUDACITY OF HOPE

2008-11-04T23:24:00.004-06:00

Gosh, I Hate Time-Warner

2008-06-09T11:40:00.002-05:00

Due to work and health and internet issues I have not been blogging. For the past month I have been having a great deal of problems with my internet connection. If I could I would switch from time-warner to Grande but alas such is not possible. With any luck my connection to the the inter-tubes will remain secure.

As for why we didn't go to the convention and have done no blogging. Work issues have held me back as well as health issues. I am on the mend and I am even working are my next post. Until then...

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

We're Going to Austin

2008-05-27T17:22:00.002-05:00

We just received confirmation from Hector Nieto, TDP Communications Director, that we will be covering the convention.

My man Wonko's Bud Too will be covering the convention for me. Alas, family details and work won't allow me the time off. With any luck he'll have a good time.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus,

Wonko's Bud

Un Otro Voice Has Signed Up To Cover The State Convention

2008-05-08T19:53:00.003-05:00

Thanks to my good friend at Dos Centavos, who sent me the request form, I have requested credentials, for a special correspondent, to the 2008 State Convention. I know that we could have gone as either an alternate or delegate, but we wanted to take the chance and try this route. I know that this is a long shot, but hey a lot of things for me have been long shots.

I will let you know one way or the other how it goes.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus Wonko's Bud

Gun At Hernandez Intermediate: Update

2008-05-07T06:58:00.002-05:00

The school district is releasing information that I was unwilling to release. The student in question is a 12 year old sixth grade male student. The gun is now described as a 38 caliber revolver. The amount of ammunition on the students person was two rounds and the gun was unloaded. The administrator is Vice Principal Ricardo Soliz and the teacher is Mrs. Carlyle a sixth grade teacher. The names of the support staff have as of yet not been released.

Questions are starting to arise as to the way the school has handled the incident.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Gun Found In San Marcos Texas School

2008-05-06T19:05:00.007-05:00

I have just this afternoon received word that a gun was found within a students possession at Hernandez Intermediate School. The school houses both fifth and sixth grades. The details are still sketchy and have only been confirmed by two sources.

The gun is described as a large caliber revolver, possibly a .357 magnum, and was confiscated from the student after a teacher noticed the student acting peculiar. An administrator was called by the teacher to search the students backpack. It was at that time the firearm was discovered. The gun may have been unloaded but the student was in possession of some ammunition.

It has been determined that this was the second day that the student brought the gun to school. Other students are known to have seen the gun yesterday and some were in possession of rounds consistent with the caliber of gun. It is assumed that those student's who had knowledge of the gun have been suspended and, that the student who brought the gun to school has been expelled.

My sources tell me that the administrator and the teacher both acted prudently, and should be commended for their quick thinking and good response. For one thing, the teacher is said to have noticed the student acting suspiciously with his backpack, and rather than let it pass notice contacted the administrator for assistance. The administrator called police when the weapon was found before informing the Superintendent, Dr. Shafer. The administrator had support staff search the school for those students with knowledge of the gun. Both teacher and administrator (as well as support staff) acted in the best interest of their students and their colleagues.

While I do have additional information, I am keeping it under wraps to protect the identities of those involved and, I will let the S.M.C.I.S.D. and the police divulge most of the other details.

At this time, the motive for the student bringing the gun to school is unknown, but the one thing that is certain is that a potential tragedy has been averted.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Writing R-E-A-L S-L-O-W

2008-03-12T21:10:00.003-05:00

Just saw this online. Its actually a still from a fake ad. Basically, the ad makes fun of Hillary Clinton by saying that Laura Bush is ready to be president on day one. But there is a little problem with the fake ad it relies on fake facts. Now those of you who know me may be thinking, " Hold on, it's just a fake ad", but I have heard serious people make the same erroneous point.

The makers of the ad chose to overlook the simple little fact that not only is S-E-N-A-T-O-R Clinton a twice elected United States Senator but, before being a presidents wife, she was a lawyer. The experience gained from defeat, Ala the failed health care reform attempt of the early 90's, was a valuable lesson in national politics.

I don't know how others feel but, I want people around me who have learned from mistakes made. You learn more from your mistakes than from your success'. I guess that's why I like being Catholic. It's a religion that accepts our human condition while at the same time pushes one to be more than ones DNA.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Sucess, Our Darkest Hour

2008-03-11T21:44:00.005-05:00

I have been using the last few days trying to find a new place to live. I ain't leaving the Hill Country because of the election last week. No, we just need better digs. I have also spent some time thinking about the Democrat's near future.

We are a Party that loves to fight so much so that we sometimes we need to whomp on each other, and in the process forget that the Republicans make much better targets. Unlike the Reps, we currently suffer from an over abundance of success. We have seen this election cycle increase Democratic voter turnout. We have had without a doubt the best slate of presidential hopefuls, ever.

The new folks while they are a blessing they could also be a curse. While they may share an affinity for a particular candidate it remains unclear for me if that affinity translates into a new Democratic voter.

There is a old simile, "Un flor de tierra", a flower with shallow roots. Are the new folks who voted and caucused in the Texas primary really one of us? Are they voting for the Democratic principles which separates us from the Republicans, or are they people just caught up in the excitement of the moment ready to abandon us after the drunken revelry has passed? Will they stand with the eventual Democratic nominee in November?

Being a Dem isn't just about getting my guy or gal elected to office. Being a Dem is about caring about the little guy or gal. It's about helping people up when there is no one else there. It's about doing for the least amongst us. It's about doing one's duty and expressing ones' love of country in ways that help real people. There are those who think that Democrat's hate our country. One of my favorite quotes comes from Arthur Schlisinger Jr. (JFK aide and noted historian) he said, "It is wrong to just say my country right or wrong. The true patriot says, my country right or wrong, when right keep it right and when wrong make it right." That is what I think that the Democratic Party is trying to do.

I can only hope that during this, the Democratic Party's darkest hour, that we not lose perspective. Let us have an engaged debate but let us not lose the general election. If you support Obama or if you support Clinton imagine a world where there was a G.W.Bush third term. Isn't that in the end what we should all be fighting about?

Let's work to salvage our nations tattered honor.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

An Open Letter "To Kiss My Big Blue Butt"

2008-03-07T20:47:00.007-06:00

Dear Susan,

There are arguments to be made about Texas' dual primary caucus system. An argument can be made, and should be made, against the current system. It does appear from my vantage point that a vote in one part of Texas counts for more than other parts of Texas. If the state and national parties put more resources to court one constituency over another and then; the state formulates a system that further rewards the courted then yes, Democrats need to reevaluate the current system. If one can be had, there is nothing wrong with trying to develop a more equitable system.

I think that a primary system is always preferable over the caucus system. You write that, "The caucus system builds the grassroots." That is a valid argument in favor of the caucus system but would you consider that the caucus system favors only those who can afford to participate in such a system? Whenever I have attended my precinct caucus the only people who attend are those who can afford to. From what I have seen over the last few primary/caucus elections there are great opportunities for abuse. I have seen it in the pass and currently, I am looking into allegations that it has happened in my county.

You support Obama, I support Clinton, and that is where for the most part we disagree. From what I have read and from what I have seen, Senator Obama and Senator Clinton are for the most part indistinguishable. In the end, I will vote for whomever is the eventual nominee. I will do so because I believe in what the Democratic party has stood for.

Let me put it another way, I am a big D Democrat because I am a little d democrat. I won't allow the rough and tumble process allow me to attack Mr. Obama any more than I think you and others should attack Mrs. Clinton. I would rather and I hope you will consider that it is better to build up Mr. Obama rather than tear down Mrs. Clinton.

I would hope that in the end Clinton/Obama '08 is more than a true Yellow Dog Democrat's dream. Perhaps the candidate's and their supporter's egos' (yes, you and me) are the greatest hurdles for our Party to overcome.

At some point, someone needs to be the one to say basta (enough) this race is ours to lose, Democrats need to stand together if we are to prevail. The enemy is out there not within our camp.

Perhaps, just maybe, it starts here with me and you.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Precinct 110: This Story Is Bizarre

2008-03-05T22:24:00.003-06:00

I have just received word that the precinct convention in Hays county may have been questionable.

A voter has stated that precinct 110's convention was moved outside of the building at 8pm. The voter stated that the lighting was so bad that the voter asked the woman behind the table if she could read the sign in sheet to the voter. It was after the part about voter address, phone number, and email that the odd questioning occurred. If memory serves me right it would be around where you would write in you presidential preference.

I have been told that an email has been sent to Gloria Whitehead, Hays County Democratic Party Chair. My source tells me that there was an earlier phone conversation about this allegation.

I have been told that the HCDP Chair promised to investigate the allegation.

I will update with any new information. Man I hope this is just a miss understanding.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

It Could Be Nothing?

2008-03-05T18:47:00.003-06:00

I have been getting strange reports from precinct 110. I have yet to get a full accounting but there may have been some party crashers there.

The few details I have are that the sign in sheets passed around at the precinct convention included questions of a personal nature such as:" Are you gay or lesbian?", "Do you have a social disease?".

I am told that a call has been made to the Hays County Party Chair, Gloria Whitehead. I will update if anything comes of it.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Hays County Precinct 112 and 111 Pictues

2008-03-05T18:36:00.007-06:00

I would've taken the Republican's photos but they didn't show up.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

23.86%

2008-03-04T22:51:00.005-06:00

All precinct's in Hays County have reported record turnouts. Dems voted in large numbers. Results are as follows:

Total Eligible Voters: 84,567

Republicans: 8039 or 9.51%

Democrats: 20,179 or 23.86%

I do not have precinct numbers but I will try to pull something together this weekend. I have never seen so many come out to a precinct convention since 1986. The conventions for precincts 111 and 112 didn't even get started until 7:45 P.M. The last voter voted around 7PM.

Hays County is considered a swing county, only recently trending Democratic. If we can keep these voters on our side we will see a Texas Democratic landslide come November. It's a good day to be a Texas Democrat!

I am having problems uploading images. I will try later.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Wonko's Bud Vote's For...

2008-03-01T18:15:00.007-06:00

After much back and forth I have decided to vote for Hillary Clinton. I will also caucus for her on March 4th. While I do like her opponent, in the end, I felt that we need someone who has already been through the crucible.

To me, Senator Clinton is a known quantity and has the experience in Washington to make change happen. I think that she is right on most of the issues such as health care, education, the economy, and foreign policy.

In the final analysis, her stance on border security and John McCain's War in Iraq is what has sealed the deal.

I do not believe that any other candidate has a grasp of the political minefields that await them on border security. I believe that she can guide our country to a fair and equitable solution on the border fence. As it stands now, the citizens of this country have no voice with regards to how the fence will be constructed. Those without money will suffer while the uber-wealthy will be unaffected. If things do not change, John Edwards' belief that there are two America's will have an unintended national monument.

On Bush's War in Iraq, I think that she has the credibility to end the failed and bloody Republican doctrine of pre-emption. I think that she can guide our country back from the brink of international pariah to a full fledged and honorable member of the global community.

There are some who may scoff at my choice, but I am tired of not having a president that I can be proud of. I want change. I need change. I have a strong feeling that she can deliver change.

I made my choice for Clinton but not against Obama. I look forward working with his supporters in the general election. Together, we can finally end the Republican nightmare. I hope you will consider my posting and join me in voting for and caucusing for Hillary Clinton.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Obama Warned Not To Sue Texas Dems...

2008-03-01T00:58:00.003-06:00

Texas Dems are worried that Obama may sue to halt the Texas primary. The following was sent out to his campaign.

"It has been brought to my attention that one or both of your campaigns may already be planning or intending to pursue litigation against the Texas Democratic Party," Dunn said in the letter, obtained by the Star-Telegram. "Such action could prove to be a tragedy for a reinvigorated Democratic process."

Dunn is the Texas Democratic Party legal counsel. I say shame on anyone who would pull a stunt like that.

Now here's the rest of the story: As reported in the Star-Telegram, the letter was sent to both candidates. The paper used unnamed sources for their story. The sources attributed the threat as having come from the Clinton camp. Many have jumped on this story in the bloggoshpere as have local news outlets. I have a problem with the fact that, without proof and at the eleventh hour, such a story would come out.

Both campaigns may have intimated that they would do such a thing but, it is Clinton's campaign that is being tagged with the story. This is unfair and really has no place during the primary as it is divisive. If indeed one of the campaigns does follow through with such a threat then that becomes another story all together. I would hope that the Obama supporters with blogs would give the whole story rather than cherry pick information from the story so as to put Senator Clinton in a bad light.

It is these kinds of low road, spineless politics that I detest. It may be the deciding factor as to who I plan to vote for and caucus for. I guess it's time for the adults to take over.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

A Sad Day In San Marcos

2008-02-29T18:49:00.005-06:00

I heard this morning that an old and most dear family friend, Johnnie Armstead, passed away last night. She was 74. I haven't seen much of Johnnie since her fall a while back. She never seem to recover. I last saw her on a shopping trip to the local HEB. While she looked a little tired she was still so full of life.

Johnnie and my late mother were both friends. During one of our many conversations over the years she reflected on how much my mother meant to her. I liked to stop by the Hays County Democratic office just talk to her. No subject was taboo and even the taboo didn't seem so bad. Though frank, she was always a lady.

In those conversations I got a glimpse of San Marcos history from another perspective. Not only did we cover political and social history we also covered current political and social goings on. While she never said a negative thing about another person, I always came away with the understanding of what and who she thought was right and wrong.

Today in the Statesman, and I'm sure in the other local papers they will write about her community activism. You know, just the facts. But if you will take a moment and read the guestbook, you may come to understand how one Mexican boy came to like and indeed love a little black lady.

My sincerest condolences to her wonderful husband Albert and to her family. Her lost to our community is most dear. And with that, I will close as I always do with praise. But today, in Johnnies honor, instead of Latin I will use English...

Thanks Be To God

Wonko's Bud

15,000 Strong

2008-02-29T06:01:00.007-06:00

Senator Obama drew a crowd of about 15000 strong this past Thursday. Those of you familiar with Sewell Park should note that the line went all the way to the big HEB on Hopkins street. Some of my school kids told me that they were there. By the time the event started, the crowed had been packed on both sides of the San Marcos river and the large foot bridge at the park. The crowed was also packed tight on the bridge in between Strahan Coliseum and the apartment complex. The residents at the apartment complex, it seems, had invited friends as there was no room to stand outside.You can see the apartment complex in the first shot. The blobs on each
landing aren't mutated hedges but are in fact people.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

The O Man Cometh

2008-02-26T18:49:00.004-06:00

Senator Obama will be in San Marcos Texas tomorrow. He is expected to give a speech at 9:15p.m. at Texas States Sewell park. Gates will open at 7pm. I wouldn't be surprised if more than 10,000 show up.

For those of you familiar with San Marcos your best bet is to park on the other side of the university and walk. Shuttle service will be available from the main parking lots at Texas State but I wouldn't count on them. Since my church is close by I intend to walk the mile and a half to the event.

Lucy's, a local music venue, will have a rally watch party. They will be screening the rally via CNN. Space is limited to 700 people. To reserve a space go to Obama's campaign website and look up my obama event. Type in the 78666 zip and 10 mile radius and it will take you where you need to go.

Friends who still drive for the University Tram tell me that security is tight. I would advise those of you attending to carry picture identification and leave your pack packs at home. Weather report says that it will be about 50 degrees.

I intend on being there though I am uncommitted. History is history.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

If You Will Notice

2008-02-25T22:09:00.002-06:00

I have added a blog that I have enjoyed for quite some time. I hope you will give Susan a read. I have added her link here.

I would also direct you to the other blogs that I like.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

A Yellow Dogs Dream

2008-02-23T09:01:00.002-06:00

DECIDEDLY UNDECIDED

2008-02-22T19:48:00.004-06:00

I was for Richardson when this whole process started. I may still vote for him in the Texas primary. I did the same thing with Howard Dean. Both of those men were my first choice but this year is different. This time around the Democratic bench was a lot stronger and deeper.

Now, I am faced with two candidates whom I believe would make a great president. Over the past few weeks I have gone back and forth with both candidates. I have strongly agreed with both of them on most issue's and strongly disagreed on few issue's. I have thought about both of their chances in the general election and as of yet I have not made a decision.

I have had problems with both of the candidates on the issue of the war and immigration. With regards to immigration, both candidates have blamed the problem on immigrants and are scapegoating the undocumented on the issues of taxes and jobs. In the Hollywood debate, Clinton said that immigrants were taking jobs from blacks. When in fact immigrants are, by and large, taking jobs that Americans do not want. Last time I checked native born African Americans were in fact Americans. I was very pleased with Senator Obama's response to Senator Clinton in that he said that he didn't agree with the premise of the question and that we shouldn't become polarizing on the issue.

During last nights debate, I strongly disagreed with both Obama and Clinton when they both said that immigrants don't pay taxes. The undocumented do pay taxes for which they will receive no benefit. The undocumented pay property tax, sales tax, medicaid/medicare, social security, etc.

Clinton, it seems, has a firmer grasp of the realities on the issue of border security. Of course, I am referring to the Wall. She is right in that border security both north and south could utilize current technology to enhance border security.

I have been opposed to the war ever since President Bush said, "...After all this is the man(Saddam Hussein) who tried to kill my daddy". Neither Obama or Clinton can say the same. Both have supported Bush's War in both word and deed. Before some of you start screaming that Obama has consistently opposed the war from the beginning, I would refer you to the TV show Meet The Press back in 2006 and also on his voting record in the US Senate.

After last nights debate I can honestly say that both Senator's have not sealed the deal. For me, it may actually come down to election day to make a decision. But isn't that a good thing? Shouldn't we cast our votes in a thought full and considered way? Isn't that the American ideal if not the American way?

Wonko's Bud

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Oh My God!

2008-02-22T19:03:00.004-06:00

I have just received the three day rundown for early voting in Hays County. This does not include today's numbers. Democrat's in Hays county are out voting Republicans almost three to one. The numbers are as follows:

Early Voting Locations

Kyle City Hall Dems: 214 Reps: 68
Dripping Springs ISD Admin Dems: 218 Reps: 82
Wimberley Community Center Dems: 258 Reps: 158
Texas State University Dems:260 Reps: 68
County Elections Office Dems: 482 Reps:160

Mail In Ballots Dems: 341 Reps: 116

TOTALS Dems: 2093 Reps:723

These numbers are not broken down by precinct. The Elections Office keeps a roster of those voting early and I was told that I could break down the numbers on my own. Unfortunately, I didn't find this out until the office was closed. I will do a precinct breakdown next weekend.

The numbers I find most interesting are the Wimberley numbers. You may have read about that school district refusing to pay its Robin Hood contribution. I will be interested in seeing the Buda numbers. Both Kyle and Buda represent the fastest growing parts of our county.

Wonko's Bud

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Happy Labrador Day...(I mean labor day)

2007-09-03T10:45:00.000-05:00

For everyone who works hard I wish you a happy Labor Day. For the rest of you slackers...GET A JOB!

This weekend marks my beautiful wife's birthday and we have been celebrating it all weekend long. Being of Irish decent (yes I'm Irish by marriage) we started the festivities at a new local pub Sean-Patricks for dinner and live music. The dinner part didn't go very well. The food that we had was ok but expensive for the quality. A friend of ours declined to accompany us, in part, because he has had two bad experiences with service at Sean-Patricks. If you go to the Pub, go for the drinks and live music but, skip the food.

The performers that night are pictured above. They were great. I really liked Campbell and Wison's stage presence and their performance was superb. Here is a link to their web page for those who might like to catch a performance.

We followed Fridays festivities with a small gathering of friends at Cheatham Street Warehouse on Sunday to have food and cake for my beloved. The evenings entertainment was provided by The Patio Boys formerly the Grant Mazak Band. While there is a small cover charge at the door this band is worth the cost. They perform the first Sunday of every month at Cheatham Street.

Since, I am writing about local live music venues, I should mention that a couple of weeks ago we went to Lucky Cup Coffee House in Kyle Texas to listen to some live music. It was a really great experience listening to live music under a star filled sky in the beautiful Texas hill country. I will post the next time they have a live show.

Yeah, I could've blogged about the Republican Sex scandals, the war in Iraq, or the upcoming city council race in San Marcos and other local goings on; but every now and again you've got to enjoy life.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

A Cautionary Tale For the City of San Marcos

2007-08-30T08:48:00.000-05:00

It would be wise for the City of San Marcos to read the current issue of the Houston Chronicle. The Chronicle gives some information about the struggles that the City has been dealing with concerning the proposed citywide Wi-Fi system.

Earth-link is the City of Houston's wireless provider. Their contract called for Earth-link to begin installation of the system this summer. Earth-link has, it seems, missed it's deadline. So it now appears that Earth-link will pay a five million dollar penalty to the City. The Chronicle article went on to speculate if the system will be built at all.

Members of the San Marcos City Council should use their contacts from the City of Houston and find what if any mistakes have been made on the part of the City of Houston and Earth-link. So far, San Marcos has only begun its quest for a citywide Wi-Fi system of its own, with a small investment of a couple hundred thousand dollars.

TSU in San Marcos has recently completed a campus-wide Wi-Fi system of its own. The University Star has an article about the new system. It would be interesting to see if the City of San Marcos and TSU could create a joint venture Wi-Fi system. Such a project could go a long way towards Town and Gown relations.

Gratias Tbi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

I Am Back

2007-08-30T08:29:00.000-05:00

After longer than expected hiatus Un Otro Voice is back. A lot of things have happened since my last posting. The most significant thing that has happened to this blog is that my new Lenovo (IBM) computer committed suicide. We are still waiting for IBM to repair it. In the mean time I am using my old computer. Its a 2003 Compaq and it is very slow.

The most Significant thing that has happened to me, Wonko's Bud, is that my wife and I have added to our family by one...her Aunt.

We have spent the last few months moving her to the hill country and setting her up in a new house. Who would have thought that Texas would come out of its five year long drought? Of course this splendid event would happen right when I needed to have a house moved and set up. The financial responsibility of adding on the Aunt for my wife and I is huge, but hey she's family.

Besides, it feels good to help a refugee from Abilene.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus
Wonko's Bud

Gun Nuts Unite

2007-04-18T22:36:00.000-05:00

There was a problem with blogger last night and it would only post part of what I had written. I couldn't figure it out so I will try to convey a few thoughts.

I am sort of an oddity. I am a liberal Democrat who likes guns. I like guns for the same reason that I like fireworks. I am not a hunter but I suppose that if I were I would most probably use a black powder rifle. I think that those types of fire arms require much more skill than most modern firearms.

While I am an gun enthusiast, I have a real problem with a piece of legislation authored by State Representative Patrick Rose. Mr. Rose has introduced a bill, HB991, that would keep secret concealed gun permit information. The legislation does allow for law enforcement to have access to the concealed gun permit database but, it would bar the public and the media from accessing that information.

I for one would like to know who has a permit to carry a concealed gun. I would like news outlets to be able to access that information. In an Star-Telegram article Mr. Rose stated that he trusted law enforcement to do the job of checking who can have a permit. I don't. Because law enforcements agencies are not infallible, private individuals should be able to see if someone in their neighborhood is in possession of such a permit.

At this time, I would most likely have written a hypothetical situation of a mentally disturbed individual fraudulently obtaining a concealed gun permit or even a gun. But unfortunately, I don't have to make something up. Confirmed news reports have stated that the massacre at Virginia Tech was perpetrated by someone who had been. in 2005. involuntarily committed into a mental health facility. The shooter was not legally able to purchase a gun and in Texas would have been disqualified to carry a concealed gun permit. He simply slipped through the cracks. Law enforcement in Virginia missed it and it can happen here. It has happened in Texas.

Mr. Rose should withdraw his legislation and work to keep government open not closed to the people who sent him to Austin.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus
Wonko's Bud

The War, by Ken Burns...an update

2007-04-13T00:40:00.000-05:00

PBS has announced that the documentary, "The War", will be aired in September with changes. I blogged about this earlier (link here). The announcement comes after complaints that the documentary by Ken Burns did not include Latinos. Additional changes will include coverage of Native Americans experience. PBS described the changes as additions to the existing fourteen part documentary.

I am pleased that PBS and Ken Burns have come to the understanding that major elements of the WWII war effort were glaringly absent. I do not know what the changes will consist of but I look forward to seeing the documentary. I can only hope that the final product will be worthy of PBS's usual superb standards.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Republi-thug Pleas Guilty

2007-04-05T20:29:00.000-05:00

Former State Representative Rick "Sucker Punch" Green is set to plead guilty for assaulting current State Representative Patrick Rose on this past election day. Burnt Orange has the details of the assault and the San Marcos Daily Record has the newest details.

While I have until now declined to use the word thug in regards to Republicans, I have made an exception for the obvious reason, he is a thug. OK, maybe not the traditional thug, more like a wimpy one. You have to wonder if Rick is having a problem with getting over his four year old electoral pounding at the hands of Patrick Rose.

I wonder what Rick means when he describes himself with the following, "Rick has a solid Biblical worldview and is an excellent teacher of how Biblical principles and Christian values relate to current events and every aspect of life."

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

"Suffer the children to come unto me..." In Texas they just suffer.

2007-04-01T21:38:00.000-05:00

Over the past month, I have been reading with much disappointment the affect of the Republican legislature on the youngest and most vulnerable among us. The list is extensive of the misdeeds of the Republicans at both the national and state levels. But for now, I am mostly concerned with what is happening in Texas.

The Texas Youth Commission Rape Scandal, The CHIPs Fiasco, and The Texas Medicaid Debacle; are the three major stories that has caused me to believe that the Republican lead state government has repeatedly proven that they are not only indifferent to children but outright hostile towards this group.

I have often asked, why do Republicans feel the need to thump the bible but rarely live by its teachings? I would not have a problem with Republicans if they didn't use Christ to divide us and to enrich themselves. My problem doesn't lie only with the politicians and the party's which they serve. My problem also lies with the supposed Christians who support them. If they are called by name and if their names are written in the book of life then why do they continue to reject the most fundamental aspect of the ministry of Christ? Love.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." What good is faith without good works?

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Update:I direct you to Dos Centavos for a video its about 8 minutes long entitled, (click on title)

Anti-Life, Anti-Children Republicans...and here's proof!

I AM Back

2007-03-30T08:34:00.000-05:00

The first story is about the lack of women and minorities leading Kyle city government. Specifically the story details that Kyle is more than fifty percent hispanic/latino. It does cause one to wonder if the current lawsuit filed by the NAACP against the city is the result of this short fall. Here is the link

Finally, the Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce made this announcement. I have know about this for some time but have remained silent to protect the guilty...errrrhhh....innocent:

Kyle Chamber hires director

The Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced the hiring of Ray Hernandez as its new executive director.

Hernandez is a graduate of Texas State University. As the former Executive Director of the San Marcos Hispanic Chamber of Commerce from 1998 to 2000, Hernandez gained experience in member networking, training and promotion, economic development, tourism and budgeting. During his tenure, the membership of the San Marcos Hispanic Chamber grew from 98 to more than 300 members.

“We are very excited to have a person of Ray's caliber here to lead our team,” said Barbara Penhall, president of the Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce. “The City of Kyle is beginning to see a huge increase in commercial development and the Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce needs to be prepared to serve these businesses as they make Kyle their home.”

Hernandez was born and raised in San Marcos and his family has roots in Central Texas dating from the 1890s. His wife Belinda is the Program Director in the Outreach Division of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, and they have three children.

The Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce will host a reception on Wednesday, April 11 from 5-7 pm at the Kyle City Hall to introduce Hernandez to the community.

Congratulations to both the Chamber for making a wise decision on finally bringing in expert help and Mr. Hernandez for accepting the position.

In the interest of full disclosure, I should note that I know Mr. Hernandez. While many who read this blog know the extent of that knowledge, I will exercise my constitutional right to remain silent. Suffice it to say that I will be watching and, blogging.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Backbone Wins Grammy's For Dixie Chicks

2007-02-13T00:20:00.000-06:00

By now everyone has heard that the Dixie Chicks have taken five Grammy awards. When their latest album was released I emailed FM radio station KASE in Austin Texas and asked why the didn't play any of the songs off of the latest album. Bob Pickett's response was, "The chicks are maketing this album to a rock audience. Garth did the same thing with his Chris Gaines project". He also wrote, "Nothing on the country charts from that CD". Yet the album peaked at 36 on the Billboard country music charts.

My question is, how is it that an album that doesn't get radio air time still manage to make it to 36? Maybe because it is a good album. Another thing, isn't it possible for a country album or song to be a crossover success? If so, wouldn't it be equally possible for other genre's to attain crossover success in country music? KASE played the Kid Rock duet with Sheryl Crow till I was sick of the song, somehow to me they don't seem like a country act to me.

Regardless of what country radio thinks of the Dixie Chicks two thing are true, those ladies were right about President Bush and backbone wins.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Above And Beyond The Call of Duty

2007-02-10T17:16:00.001-06:00

Carlos Guerra columnist from the San Antonio Express News has penned a really good article about the PBS documentary, "The War". It is produced by the noted documentarian Ken Burns, who has also produced definitive works such as "The Civil War", "Jazz," and "Baseball". It is being reported that this supposed definitive history of the second world war is being produced without a Latino/Hispanic perspective.

I have emailed the Austin PBS station requesting information about the new documentary. As of yet I have not received a response.

If what is stated in the article is true then the documentary will fall short of the over all goal of PBS, to educate. I agree that if the contributions of Latinos is overlooked then a significant portion of our country's history is being deleted from our collective consciousness. I have not seen the documentary nor have I read much more than what is being reported but here are a few things that may be overlooked if there is no mention of Latinos.

On the foreign relations side, the fact that our neighbors to the south did not throw in their lots with the axis powers was a boon to the war effort here at home. There is an old Mexican lament, "So far from God, and so close to the United States." It would have been easily justifiable for the rest of the our hemisphere to have sided with the axis powers. If for nothing else, they could have stood up against the American jingoistic policy towards the southern nations. As to foreign relations, military support( though a token amount) was given to the Allied powers. I of course am referencing the air squadron 201, the Aztec Eagles. They were a group of Mexican airmen and pilots that fought in the war. Here is a link to a short blurb and a short four minute video.

But that is not the only example of foreign nationals helping with our war effort. Regardless of your opinion of the Bracero program, one thing can not be disputed, it provided the United States with a great pool of labor that helped us win the war. Funny thing is that after all these years this is still an issue in the United States.

On the home front Latinos also went to work, whether in the factories or on the farm, Latinos provided for our nations ability to fight the war. But that is not all, our fathers and mothers answered the call to arms and donned our nations uniform. They fought for the United States, a country for whom most weren't considered real Americans. Latinos fought in every major combat engagement and served in every theater of operation. For more information about Latinos I direct you to Among The Valiant. It is a book written by a local central Texas native with the introduction by LBJ. For those of you from San Marcos, you will be surprised to see a very young Augustine Lucio pictured in the book. Augustine is a long time family friend and was an important political force in central Texas.

Some may wonder why I call this posting Above And Beyond The Call of Duty? As an ethnic group Latinos have received more Congressional Medals of Honor than any other group in the twentieth century. We have fought for this country on the battlefield, on the farm, in the town square and at the ballot box. Why? I think the noted historian Arthur Schlesinger Jr. said it best, "My country right or wrong. When right keep it right. When wrong make it right."

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Proof That Republicans Are Not Always a Waste of Space

2007-02-09T19:56:00.000-06:00

Seems that State Senator Jane Nelson(R), has introduce legislation that would mandate at least thirty minutes a day of moderate or vigorous physical activity for students in grades K through 8. The bill would also require physical assessments twice a year for kids from K through 12th grade. I think that this is a great idea. If this Senate bill and its companion in the House passes and if there is adequate funding then I say, Suit Up!

Since 1995, when physical education was limited by the legislature in favor of classroom academics, the health of kids has become an ever increasing problem. Recently, in an effort to combat childhood obesity, effort's have been taken to remove junk food from schools. Most school districts use the money from junk food to fund what local property taxpayers won't or can't pay. I commend those districts who have made such efforts, but the availability of junk food is only a part of the equation.

In the documentary Super Size Me, Morgan Spurlock, covered part of the issue. It is a movie I highly recommend people watch. Private and public researchers agree that twenty minutes a day of moderate exercise coupled with a sensible diet are the essentials of a healthy lifestyle. This bill should address one part of the problem. If we can teach kids how to take a test (TAKS) then we should be able to teach kids how to live healthier.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Dream Candidate?

2007-02-02T23:35:00.000-06:00

There has been much speculation lately about Al Gore running for President. After working locally for his election back in 2000 and being miserably disappointed by the Florida debacle, I would strongly support Gore for 2008. He has raised the issue's concerning our stewardship of the environment to a level that I don't think even Bono could do.

His foreign policy, congressional, and bureaucratic expertise is without dispute unparalleled by most of the current Democratic field. There is one exception, Governor Richardson of New Mexico. But that is another post. Most observers have noted lately the Al Gore that I was accustom to seeing on C-SPAN; relaxed, passionate, and in command.

Because of his work on the environment Gore has been nominated for the Noble Peace Prize.It is possible that Gore could be the first President to receive a Noble Peace Prize before entering office. I think because of the above reasons Al Gore would have the best chance of recouping the United States lost honor and prestige amongst the global community. Next to Governor Richardson, Gore has the best chance of cleaning up President Bush's murderous blunder.

Oh yeah before I forget, Gore winning the White House would be poetic justice for Florida 2000.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Liberals, Progressives and Heaven Take Note, Molly Ivins Is Dead

2007-01-31T18:50:00.000-06:00

I heard the news about an hour ago on News 8 Austin. Molly Ivins is dead. I had forgotten that she was even ill until recent reports had remind me of her long battle with cancer. I, like so many others, have enjoyed her work over the years. I especially liked watching her on C-SPAN. It was something about her delivery, whether in written or oral form, that always caused me to smile.

I first met her in between my working on the Victor Morales senate campaign and my own run for city council. To say that I was nervous to meet her would be a great understatement. My friends and family know me as someone who is not public wallflower. But in her presence at that bar-b-que I was truly at a lost for words. I guess I was confused by all of the things that I wanted to say but couldn't. I liken that experience as a cross between meeting an alien and trying to ask the pretty girl in high school out on a date. I don't remember much about that meeting except to say that she was very kind to me.

Garrison Keillor once wrote that an appropriate comment from a fan should include a nod, a smile and the words, "I like your stuff," and then move on. No gushing and no intruding on the celebrity's life.

Goodbye Ms. Ivins....I liked your stuff.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Blogging From The Armpit of Texas aka Abilene

2006-12-23T17:35:00.000-06:00

No, I haven't been chased out the beautiful Texas Hill Country...yet. I am just visiting West Texas because that's where my wife's family happens to reside, for now. While I haven't really blogged for a week now many things have been going on which I will be covering next week.

You know like a real Texas House Speaker's race between two Republicans. It's only a matter of time before its between several Democrats. But hey its the only game going on now.

I will also be writing about the news concerning former Attorney General Dan Morales. Funny thing is that even as a young kid when I first met him I asked one of his former coworkers, "He seems like a real oily politician...is that just me or what?".

Coal Plants in Texas! It seems funny to me that a state like Texas, which sits on a natural gas reserve estimated to be equal in energy as the oil reserves in Saudi Arabia, that the Republicans want to muck up our air with coal fired plants.

I won't express my Christmas wishes now but I will tommorrow. So until then...

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

History Making Ceremonies Completed

2006-12-16T17:41:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday, I had the pleasure to witness history on the steps of the Hays County Courthouse. Liz Sumter took the oath of office as the first woman to hold the position of Hays County Judge. Unfortunately, our camera went dead so I wasn't able to record the even and post it here. But I was standing next to our recently returned Congressman, Lloyd Doggett, during the event.

The following Tuesday, Sherri Tibbe, the first woman to be elected Hays County District Attorney, took the oath of office along with the rest of the new commissioners Ford and Barton. Though they don't officially take office until January, it was nice to see Judge-elect Sumter take the oath. I didn't get to see the Tuesday event because we had a medical emergency.

I did talk to some people at the Sunday event, and we wondered what would be the effect on the various mayors in Hays County that used their office to support the out going Republican County Judge and Commissioners. I for one take a very dim view on those who would take a partisan stand from a nonpartisan elected position. It's one thing to say that Susan Cifford-Narvaiz supports a Republican candidate. It's quite another thing to say that the Mayor of the City of San Marcos Texas supports a Republican, as did the other various mayors in Hays County.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Childhood Memory

2006-12-13T13:00:00.000-06:00

Actor Peter Boyle died last night at the age of seventy-one. I know most people will probably think of Everybody Love's Raymond when they think of Peter Boyle. For me it's Young Frankenstein and later Johnny Dangerously.

I can remember seeing him for the first time in a movie called "Young Frankenstien". The year was 1975 and I was very young, in fact, it was the very first movie I was allowed to see alone. The movie theater in San Marcos was new and I sat in the front row. I can remember some people in the sparse audience complaining that the film was in black and white as the show began. But what did I know, just about everything I saw was in black and white. At the time, my family had only a twelve inch black and white television. at this point in my young life, I had only seen a couple of movies at the old drive in movie theater that were in color. It was located where the Wal-mart now stands.

I remember now how much I enjoyed the film. My favorite scene takes place in the blind hermit's (Gene Hackman) hut and Frankenstien's Monster (Peter Boyle) is invited in. I never laughed so much and rarely do I laugh that hard when I watch a movie. I was hooked on comedies from a very early age because of that movie. It wasn't until much later in life that I discovered other movies in which Mr. Boyle worked on that I came to realize that he wasn't a comedic actor.

This is one childhood memory that I will always cherish. I think I'll order up that movie today. For a few minutes I'll pretend that I am sitting in a little movie theater where it's 1975 and it's safe for a little kid to go to the movies alone.

Gartias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Big Picture's and Party's

2006-12-05T22:15:00.000-06:00

First the party, on 12-10-06 at 2 pm newly elected Hays County Judge Liz Sumter will be sworn in on the steps of the Hays County Courthouse. She is the first woman to hold the position. On 12-12-06 Democrats recently elected to the Hays County Commissioners Court and the new District Attorney will be sworn in at the Hays County Justice Center. Refreshments to follow the swearing in ceremony.

There have been many going's on around Central Texas and Hays County in particular. Such as Sights and Sounds of Christmas on the beautiful San Marcos River. The search for a new SMCISD Superintendent. The Hays School District football team moving on to the 4A Region IV Division II finals. I would be remiss if I failed to mention SMCISD Rattlers football team march to a possible 5A Division II state championship. Not last but certainly sad, soon to be former Republican County Commissioner Susie Carter's melt down in Commissioner's Court over fellow Republican County Commissioner Conley's appointment to oversee contract negotiations with the State of Texas. She was against his appointment which will only be until the new Commissioners Court is seated. It was all very sad and very personal.

Now for the Big Picture, the other day my friend over at Dos Centavos, posted something that got me thinking. The comments that I left really got to me, click on the above link. It has to do with making politics and elections relevant to more people. I don't know how to do it but I have been thinking a great deal about it. This has been part of a whole introspective phase that I have been going through.

For the last year, I have been reading a whole lot of blogs. Some of the ones that I enjoy the most I have linked to my blog. I have been wondering if political and social commentary blogging should be more than anger and fear. I say anger and fear because bloggers seem to be angry or fearful about one thing or the other. I don't exclude myself from the above description. I have read few postings that are "up lifting", for lack of a better term.

Politics has got to be about more than pulling people down or tearing people apart. It should be about bringing people together and building people up. It may sound naive, but I think that we have forgotten how to debate. By debate, I mean where ideas can be put forth and truly discussed. A debate where my logic can be flawed but not the process' that brings them forth. Don't get me wrong, I still dislike extreme Republicanism and Libertarianism as political philosophies. I just think that by truly listening to the above ism's that Democrats in particular can learn from and develop a more sound political philosophy.

You should know that just because I have been thinking about Big Picture's doesn't mean that I am not willing and able to engage the, "Nattering Nabob's of Negativism". It only means that until something really gets to me I will be resting and waiting. Since I have been taking the occasional break since November 7th, during which I have been tending to family business and pondering, I think that I will be spending more time researching and preparing for debate.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Where Are You Superman...er...woman?

2006-11-27T20:26:00.000-06:00

The San Marcos school district will be holding a meeting tomorrow to discuss what it is that the district is looking for with regards to a new superintendent. The old one has been looking for a new district for a while now and seems to have found one. The meeting is with the consultants for the search committee.

There are some areas of concern for me on this issue. The first and foremost is that the new Super. should know how to leave what works working. Namely the schools in our district that have received recognized should be nurtured so that they can continue to improve. He or she should also look at the schools administration and determine if there are any problems there.

I doubt that anyone will disagree with me when I say that the issue of student discipline should play a major role. I would like to see a leader that is not afraid to tackle this issue. I want to know what he or she has done in their last district in this regards.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

IT's Time

2006-11-26T09:19:00.000-06:00

Ok, It's been great taking some time off for T-day. I got to travel a bit and overeat. I hope everyone had a great holiday.

See ya tomorrow.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

I Can't Get The Hang Of This

2006-11-21T20:27:00.000-06:00

I posted a new entry today but since it was drafted on the 16th of November that's where it was posted. I am new to this and I am slowly learning to navigate with blogger.

So let me direct you down to Blogger's Beware: The City of Kyle Is Watching!

Happy Thanksgiving To All! This year I have much to be thankful for. I wish you all could be so blessed.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Free Speech Under Attack in Kyle Texas...?

2006-11-18T00:44:00.000-06:00

I had this transcribed from the November 15th issue of The Kyle-Buda Eagle. Big thanks to my transcriptionist! Unfortunately this paper is not online but, I felt that this story is important. I needed to do this so that I can give my readers some background on the comments that will follow in a few days. The next posting will be entitled Bloggers Bware: Kyle Texas Is Watching You

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Texas Ethics Commission delves into ‘Kyle Klips’

By Mary Elizabeth Davis with the Eagle

Texas Ethics Commission officials are looking into allegations aimed at two Kyle residents and a Del Valle man of possible violating numerous sections of the state’s election laws.
The state agency requested sworn written statements, taken under oath, from Maxine Weatherford, Sherry Anderson, and Nolan Ward.
The ethics commission mailed out the Sept. 27 letters asking the trio to respond to the City of Kyle’s allegations they may have broken election laws. The commission gave them 25 business days to respond to allegations of failing to disclose statements in political advertising, misrepresenting their identity, failing to report financial campaign reports and not appointing a campaign treasurer at the time they reportedly wrote and published the anonymous Kyle Klips website and newsletters. The publications criticized city officials for allegedly wasting taxpayers’ dollars, supporting a candidate seeking the District 6 city council seat, and asking voters to vote on a city amendment to the city charter regarding the number of council votes needed to hire or fire the city manager.
“I decided it was important to share with other citizens in our community the information that I had gathered. My primary concern was that making these findings public could subject me and/or my family to retaliation by public officials who I believed were acting inappropriately. To avoid this retaliation I disseminated the information through an anonymously written newsletter, and later through an Internet blog, that I named Kyle Klips,” Weatherford said in a statement given to the district attorney. “I also did not want the issue to be about me, but about the public issues and public officials who I believe are harming our community. I wanted it to be about the message, not the messenger.
“My primary goal has been to share factual information with my neighbors so together we could improve our community. Though every fact in each publication of Kyle Klips was thoroughly checked before it was disseminated. I knew some articles contained facts that public officials would likely consider unflattering and controversial.
“I was not acting at the behest of anyone else in publishing this material. No one paid me to write or publish and issue of Kyle Klips. I was merely motivated by the desire to disseminate to my neighbors and other citizens of the community the information I had gathered.”
Kyle city council members began an investigation into who created the publications shortly after the May city election. They sent their results to the district attorney’s office.
Anderson responded to the commission’s request. She said she only edited the publication. She does not feel Kyle Klips violated election laws since they came from a private individual.
“This and the Kyle Thunderpalooza are just examples of the mismanagement and misguidance of the city council. It’s clearly an abuse of power,” said Anderson, who works as a tax policy analyst with the tax policy division of the State Comptroller’s Office. “I know I haven’t done anything wrong. We have (Texas) Supreme Court case laws that says that you don’t have to put your name on a publication that you disseminate to the public. It stifles Freedom of Speech.”
Council members removed Anderson from the city ethics commission in August upon learning her involvement in the publications.
Mayor Mike Gonzalez and City Manager Tom Mattis could not be reached for comment. Messages left for state ethics commission representatives were not returned by press time.
“What the city council never took into consideration was the fact that the Texas Ethics Commission should not hold an individual to the same standard that it hold a public official,” Anderson said. “If Todd (Webster) or Tom (Mattis) want to do something, they run to the district attorney. It’s not to be expected that a 70-year-old plus grandmother would be aware of the ethics statues.”
Assistant District Attorney Wes Mau, who handled the case when it went to the district attorney’s office, was unavailable for comment.
“I think it serves the public’s interest to ensure that elections are conducted in a fair and legal way,” said council member Todd Webster, who was re-elected to the District 6 seat last May. “I think there’s an obligation that the city has in making sure that elections are run fairly. The decision we made to deal with that issue was made prior to anyone knowing who was involved. The things were turned over to the appropriate authorities. If the ethics commission decided not to do anything with it, it’s their call.”
“If Todd Webster had a problem with the election he should have pursued a complaint.” Anderson said. “Instead he hid behind other city council members and had them do his dirty work.”
The election code requires candidates or their committees to report how much they raise and the amount of their expenditures if the figure is $500 or more. Candidates submit those reports in the city secretary’s office.
The account of the more than $800 in printing expenses from Kyle Klips or the $6.50 an hour reportedly paid to workers to hand deliver publications to voters’ doors never made found their way on any candidates’ financial reports.
The state ethics commission has jurisdiction over candidates and Political Action Committee’s actions.
“The City of Kyle City Council has spend $21,000 investigating Kyle Klips. It was … a newsletter that is nothing more than one exercising First Amendment rights,” Weatherford said. “This is not in the best interest of the taxpayers of Hays County.”
The exact amount the city spent on investigating Kyle Klips was not available at press time.

BLOGER'S BEWARE: The City of Kyle is Watching!

2006-11-16T22:17:00.000-06:00

OK, its been a few days since I lasted posted. I hope you have had a chance to read the article below. Here are a few links for some additional background view here and here
For the record, Wesly Mau assistant D.A. Republican was just defeated by Democrat Tibbe.

It seems to me that the City of Kyle and the Hays County D.A's office have gone more than just a little bit overboard. My main concern is over the investigation of a blog. Free speech is the right of everyone in this country. While I have not had an opportunity to see an print copy of the news letter, I have seen the blog. I don't think that a blog constitutes a campaign expenditure, for if it did, then anyone who endorses a candidate over the Internet should look over their shoulders. Yes indeed, Bloggers Beware!

As for the $800.00, reported in the article, this could constitute a problem. Anyone spending money in an election should remember a few important words, "vote for" and "vote against". If you can avoid these magic words then it is an issue ad and not subject to the same rules.

It seems odd to me that the city would expend nearly twenty five times the amount in question, $800.00, to investigate this issue. I don't know what the over all cost is, but in the grand scheme of things, it just doesn't look good for Kyle and Hays County. This is especially so when you take into consideration that the City of Kyle (it would appear) was taken to the tune of forty thousand dollars by the organizers of Thunderpalooza and is currently being sued by the NAACP.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Tuition Deregulation: How To Shrink The Middle Class

2006-11-16T16:24:00.000-06:00

It seems that once again the Texas State University-San Marcos Texas, Texas State Board of Regents are seriously considering a ten percent tuition increase (view article here).

In 1986 tuition and fees for twelve credit hours was $486.00 for the fall of 2006 combined tuition and fees are now $2,349.00. According to the student handbook for Texas State Normal School 1903 states that tuition, fees, and books ran $38.00. Now I am not saying that Tuition Deregulation impacted the 1986 and 1903 tuition rates but I only add those figures for comparison. Tuition Deregulation was passed by the Legislature in 2003. H.B. 3015 allowed for the various boards of regents for each university system to determine their own tuition rather than each system having to go to the Legislature for increases in funding.

The only problem with the deregulation of tuition was that university systems were now under less scrutiny. They could increase tuition as they sought the need required. Now instead of the Legislature having pressure being put upon them; to provide adequate funding for our higher educational system, the legislators shifted the liability away from themselves to each university system.

Why did I start with all of the numbers? Consider this, the last time I paid for twelve credit hours at TSU was right before deregulation took effect, and also before the university changed is name. At that time, I paid just over one thousand dollars, and now its more than twice the amount in only three years.

It's time for the Legislature to resume its responsibility and adequately fund education across the board. If education is the gateway to higher income potential then it is important that it be made accessible and affordable.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

District Attorney Sherri Tibbe.......?

2006-11-15T14:12:00.000-06:00

I just got off of the phone, at 2 p.m., with the Hays County Elections office and they said that final recount results will be completed by the close of business today. Democrat Sherri Tibbe won the general election, for Hays County District Attorney, by twenty-three votes. Republican Mau petitioned for the recount. The recount has been going on since 8 a.m. I will update when I get the results.

Update: I called the Elections office, at 4 p.m., and I have confirmed that Sherri Tibbe is the new Hays County District Attorney. The results were unchanged.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Lizzy And Her Friends

2006-11-13T23:52:00.000-06:00

What will the newly elected Hays County Judge Sumter and the other newly elected Democratic County Commissioners, Barton Precinct 2 and Ford Precinct 4, do over the next four years? It appears that water and growth will be significant issues for the new trio. During their respective campaigns, all three stressed growth and water as major issue's for Hays County. It looks like both of these issues will remain important as the new Commissioner's Court takes control in January 07'.

Of course, these issue's have to be looked at through the prism of the next election cycle. In other words, the new Court will have to balance taxes, property rights, and a Republican controlled Legislature. They will have to develop a growth and water plan that will not raise the local property tax rate and, respects the rights of local property owners. If both of these groups can be recruited to a palatable plan then getting the approval of the Texas legislature should be an easier task.

To that end, I hope that the new Court would convene a citizens task force, which would study and make reccomendation's on both water and development issue's. It should be made up of a cross section of residents from throughout the County. It shouldn't be made up of elected politicians talking at one another. If some are hoping for an easy fix, all I can say is, that isn't going to happen. We are in a real mess here in Hays County and we didn't get here overnight, and we won't get out that way. If the process is truly fair and deliberative we should be able to find agreeable solutions.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

The Speaker's Man?

2006-11-13T23:38:00.000-06:00

It appears that newly re-elected state representative Patrick Rose (pictured above) has made Speaker Craddicks' list of supporter's. When I first heard of this I had a visceral gut reaction..."That stupid sonof*****!!!!!!" But after a short time calming myself, I pulled out my old politician's hat (yes, I used to be one) and started to think "strategery".

It makes perfect sense in a House of Reps where Republicans far out number Democrats that Rose would give, what I can only hope is, his initial support. I think that the Democratic representatives should however look amongst the ranks of the Republicans in the House for a viable alternative for Craddick. I would be remiss if i did not note that Craddick oversaw the loss of 5 seats in the recent elections. If at anytime since becoming Speaker, Craddick, is most vulnerable now. He is also reputed to use what can lovingly be called mafioso tactics amongst state representatives. Even withing his own rank and file he is not above forcing Republicans to vote againgst the interests of their constituentes.

Perhaps if enough Republicans and Dems can get together and elect another Speaker then we can have a some real bi-partisanship in the Texas House.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Hays County Democrats: You aint seen nothing yet!

2006-11-12T00:36:00.000-06:00

I have looked and looked at the numbers and I am not totally sure how the Dems in Hays County pulled it off. The Democratic candidates for County Judge and two commissioner won their races. It looks like the District Attorney's race has gone to the Dems by very small margin (50.04% to 49.96%). In what I can only describe as a kick in the guts, two races by Democratic challengers Martinez-Boiling ( 49.26% to 50.74%) and Villalpando(49.58% to 50.42%) were lost by squeaker margins.

A major argument for the change in the commissioners court deals with national politics. Anger against the national Republican Party dealt local Republicans a near death blow but, I don't buy that as the only reason. While it is true that many people in Hays county are angry with the national Republicans in general and President Bush in particular, I fail to see how some Democrats won while others lost. If it was all about throwing the bums out then all of the Dems should have won.

I think that three reasons exist for the change on the commissioners court. First, changing demographics: from the time the court went Republican back in 1998 more people from Travis county and south Texas have moved into our county. Both of these groups trend toward Democrats. Secondly, I think that infighting between the libertarian (no taxes) and conservative (no gays) factions of the local Republican Party fractured their cohesiveness. Finally, I think that good old fashion boots on the ground type work displayed by the Hays County Dems won the day for the newly elected commissioners.

For sure, there are other plausible reasons that the Dems did so well, even among the losers. For instance, Hays County regaining its long lost Congressman Lloyd Doggett who won with 56% of the vote, or State Rep. Patrick Rose wining with 60% of the vote. In short, they had some coat tails. One thing is for sure, as crazy as this elections season has been, 08' I predict will fall into the category of you ain't seen nothing yet.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Need a Break

2006-11-09T06:54:00.000-06:00

Going with the wife to Natural Bridge Caverns near beautiful New Braunfels Texas. My next posting will be about local election results.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Ok, What's Next...?

2006-11-08T15:51:00.000-06:00

It looks like we have taken the House of Representatives with a healthy margin, and that we may even pick up the Senate. If true, the question is, what's next? Besides fully engaging in debate on the War in Iraq here are ten things that Dems need to do :

1. Get rid of welfare for billionaires and repeal the Republicans, Paris Hilton Tax Cut

2. Pass all of the 911 Commissions recommendation's and pay for them with item number 1

3. Pass all funding needed to ensure that our troops are fully equipt (see item number 1).

4. Review and strengthen real ethics reforms in both houses of Congress

5. Pass a living wage increase

6. Begin real dialogue on immigration reform and take no options off the table before the process begins.

7. Fully fund education in this country. Yes, do what not even President Bush would do about his own bill and fully fund No Child Left Behind.

8. Begin investigations on the efficacy of new electronic voting machines. Can we Dems get together and protect our democracy from another Florida 2000 or Ohio 2004.

9. Can you say Oversight? It is time for Congress to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities and investigate, review, or whatever word you choose and find out where all the money sent to Iraq has gone!

10. Congress should convene a bipatisan committee to investigate the Oil, Natural Gas, Electric Power industries and try to determine once and for all if the huge profits made were a natural phenomenon or Enron part deux.

We have one year folks to get this done and only one very short year. If Dems control both houses then we should do something that the Republicans are unable to do and that is Work. Beginning in January and not ending until November, both houses should be called to order every workday. You folks in Congress wanted the job, Now Get To WORK!

But, the job is not only your elected officials responsibility. The responsibility is yours also. Write a letter or email to the editor of your local paper. Write your elected officials and say "Congratulations on winning... Now Get To Work." Here's an idea, there is plenty of room on the net, Blog.

Get off your asses Americans. It's time we all got to work. Ok, what's next?

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Rummy Set To RESIGN

2006-11-08T12:00:00.000-06:00

CNN is reporting that Donald Rumsfield, President Bush's Secretary of Defense, is set to resign after Dems take the house by a larger number than Repubs. did in 1994. Tester of Montana has declared victory, CNN has called the Election for Tester. Senate now stands at Dems 50 Repubs. 50. That leaves Virginia outstanding, though there is every indication that Webb will win without a recount.

There are a lot of things going on now. I will blog about how local elections have turned out. Suffice it to say that Dems in Hays County have done very well.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Game On

2006-11-06T19:14:00.000-06:00

It's time to vote in tommorrow's mid term elections. I don't care who you vote for (Democrats), I only care that you vote (for Democrats). Just remember when you get to the voting booth to ask yourself a few questions.

1. Who lied (Republicans) about Iraq and who died (my brothers and sisters in uniform) since 911?

2. Who(Democrats) will fully execute the 911 Commission's recomendations and who (Republicans) has failed to pass legislation and fully fund the Commissions recomendations?

3. Who (Republicans) have aided and abetted a congressional pedophile?

4. Who (Republicans) invoke's Providence (God) but attack's the poor, the sick, and the elderly?

5. Who (Republicans) claims the power of Christ but forsakes his teachings?

6. Who (Republicans) claims to want smaller goverment but has increased the size of the Federal Government?

7. Who (Republicans) seeks to divide us by race, religion, sexual orientation, economics?

8. Who (Republicans) hate fags and uses them as a wedge issue but then turn out to be homosexuals?

9. Who (Republicans) hate brown undocumented people unless they can use them for cheap labor or cheaper campaign ads?

10. What political party (Democrats) can change the direction of our country, defend our Constitution, care for the least amongst us, and fully equip and arm our millitary?

No, it doesn't matter to me who you vote for. I only care that you vote.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Torture Isn't Christian.

2006-09-30T22:18:00.000-05:00

Today the President signed into law a bill that for the first time in our country's history eliminates a long held constitutional right of habeas corpus. The right of habeas corpus dates back to the Magna Carta. It provides for the right of the accused to exam evidence against them and challenge the accused detention, futhermore, it allows the accused the right to seek out the court system to redress his or hers incarceration.

The legislation also allows the President Bush to define who is an enemy combatant and if habeas corpus rights pertain to them. It goes on to allow President Bush to determine how The Geneva Conventions will be interpreted by the U.S. But wait there's more, President Bush can now define what constitutes torture.

In effect, the Republican Congress has given President Bush the right to claim that Osama bin Ladin, Saddam Hussein, me, you, and everyone we know; are enemy combatants. For the first time in our nations history it is now legal to detain U.S. citizens incognito, to try and to convict them in secret courts and yes, even torture.

The Republican Party, President Bush, and their supporters claim that the United States is a Christian country. My question is, Why torture? Torture isn't Christian and it isn't a reliable source of information gathering. It is cruel, inhuman, and is only can be counted on to inflict pain. Jesus only mentions the word torture once in Mathew 18.

I don't understand why people who claim to be follows of Christ can support laws such as this. Then again I don't understand how some Christians can allow themselves to be used for political puposes but thats another posting.

I remember part of a song from my youth that goes, "Whatsoever you do to the lest of my brothers that you did unto me..." For me that pretty much sums up the ministry of Christ on Earth. I find not hatred or apathy as a central theme in the life of Christ but love. The love of Providence, the love of a tortured Jesus, the love of the Holy spirit.

What Would Jesus Do?

Wonko's Bud
Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

All Hail The Great White Man! Whatever

2006-09-29T18:51:00.000-05:00

I just read a post on the Huffington Post an article by George Archibald It turns out that the Washinton Times No. 2 is a white supremacist. The article is well written and is backed up with sound journalistic fundamentals. To put it another way, they have his wife on audio tape!

I can remember dreaming years ago that racism in the U.S. was a thing of the past. I can remember arguing that racists would die out, and that Ann Richards was right that we live in a "New Texas", a new american society.

For those who don't know, the Washington Times is to print media what Fox is to television. Basically, they are the Republican Party's propogandists. For me this article is another example of how Fox, the Washington Times, and others; conspire to insure that the gains that some minorities have made are eroded.

Long before this artcle, I had come to the conclusion that racism isn't dead. One need only pickup the paper or surf the web to see that the evil of intolerance is alive and well. I hope my children are afforded the opportunity to live in a world where the tide of racism is retarded, and perhaps (dare I dream) even vanquished.

Gratias Tibi Ago Deus

Wonko's Bud

Water, Water Every Where? Part Tres

2006-09-25T17:58:00.000-05:00

Here are some more pictures just up river from the proposed sight. Both this post and the last cover about two miles of the exposed riverbed. The pictures with water are at the old dam. They were taken three summers ago. The area is beautiful. It is located in one of the fastest growing county's in the country. This is why I am concerned about all of the proposed development. We are growing too fast. We have not come up with a comphrensive water plan for all of the local communities to support our current rate of growth. As always there are some exceptions, the city of San Marcos some years ago purchased additional water rights from the Canyon Lake resevoir and the County of Hays does give a 100% tax break for rainwater collection systems but more is needed.

Wonko's Bud

Water, Water Every Where? part 2

2006-09-24T12:36:00.000-05:00

As promised a few current pictures of the Blanco river. These shots were taken at Dudley Park what locals called Five Mile Dam. Remember these pictures were taken after we have already had several days of rain over the past two weeks. All of these shots are up river from the proposed riverwalk. The photo's from the low water crossing mark the northern part of the River Walk. The Blanco river has been like this for months.

Water, Water Every Where? part uno

2006-09-24T01:21:00.000-05:00

In the June 8th edition of the San Marcos Daily Record they ran a story concerning the creation of a new river walk on the shores of the Blanco River. The development is estimated to cost nearly half a billion dollars. The article goes on to state that the, "...Blanco Riverwalk will be the most sophisticated — and expensive — commercial development in the city’s history with 835,800 square feet of retail space, 765 condominiums, 440 hotel rooms, office space, medical facilities and a 5,000-seat amphitheater".

The site is located in between IH 35 to the west, and the Blanco River to the east. It is located on the northern end of San Marcos and the most southern end of the city of Kyle. See the attached map.

What the article didn't indicate is where is the water coming from? In Central Texas, we are currently in the middle of a recurring drought. While it is true that in the last week we have had some rain, rainfall averages are below normal. The attached pictures show just how beautiful the area can be where the development is supposed to be located.

I am not against development, but as a life long resident of Hays county I have to ask, how can our ecosystem support such a large development? Where are they going to get the water to insure that there is a river to walk by? Where are they going to get water for those people who choose to live and recreate there? San Marcos already has one of, if not the highest water and waste water rates in the state. See Water, Water Everywhere? part 2, for pictures of the area as it now is after a little bit of rain.

Dixie Chicks Latest Video Controversy

2006-05-28T17:45:00.000-05:00

As I was reading a blog by a friend of mine at Dos Centavos a few days ago when I saw his link to a Dixie Chicks video on YourTube.com. I did support Natalie Maines saying what she said about President Bush. In the past, I have liked some of their songs but I am not a big fan. While reading my friend's blog and as an afterthought, I clicked on to his link to their vedio and I didn't expect much.
I can honestly say that this is a great song and a well done video. The video is as powerful as the Johnny Cash cover video of the Nine Inch Nails song. I have read a few postings about the Dixie Chicks' video and song. I have even heard a few comments on local radio (Austin and San Antonio) about the song and Ms. Maines. But I am still wondering what people think about the song.

I believe in civil discourse. I have enabled Un Otro Voice to accept comments. All I ask is that you follow a few simple rules. All submissions should be one hundred words or less. Please no vulgarities. Yup, that means no cuss words or crude language. Your comments are your's so don't hide, be proud of your views identify yourself. Of course I will not publish your email address and I will edit your comments to eliminate any personal info. that you accidentally include. If you choose I will only id you by whatever name you choose.

I would really like to have some thoughtful comments. Most of what I have read have been comments from die hard fans of the Chicks and also from those who are haters (yes even from radio personalities).

WONKO'S BUD
GRATIAS TIBI AGO DEUS